9-Hour Combo, Island Picnic

Overview

This full day out of La Paz packs two of the Baja coast's biggest draws into one trip: swimming with whale sharks in the designated protected area, and snorkeling among the sea lion colony at Espiritu Santo Island. Baja Sur Tours runs it on its own boat over 9 hours, with a maximum of 16 travellers. Along the way the boat also passes seabird colonies and stops at a beach for lunch, where reviewers describe aqua water and white sand.

The day starts early, meeting at Muelle Fiscal under the welcome arch on Paseo Álvaro Obregón in central La Paz. Gear is provided, including shorty wetsuits, and the crew includes a guide who handles in-water interpretation. Reviewers repeatedly single out the crew's care with wildlife, describing how they coach swimmers on interacting with the animals without disturbing them, and even take hesitant swimmers by the hand toward the whale sharks.

Photos from a GoPro are part of the package, along with marine life science outreach from the crew. Gratuities and towels are not included, so pack a towel.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Muelle FiscalMeet under the welcome arch on Paseo Álvaro Obregón in central La Paz at 07:15. The tour ends back at the same point.
2. Boat out on the bayTravel is by private boat. Reviewers mention the captain pausing for dolphins, whales and birdlife spotted along the way.
3. Island snorkeling stopsThe day includes snorkeling with sea lions near Espiritu Santo Island, with seabird colonies viewed from the boat. Whale shark snorkeling in the designated protected area is the other main activity; reviewers describe both stops but the exact running order can vary.
4. Beach stop and lunchA beach stop on the island for a picnic lunch with vegan options, plus snacks, drinks and local beer. Reviewers describe white sand and aqua water at the lunch spot.
5. Return to La PazThe boat returns to Muelle Fiscal, where the day ends.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points worth knowing before booking this one.

• Bring a towel. Towels are the one comfort item not included, along with gratuities. Wetsuits and snorkeling gear are provided and reviewers say the equipment is in good condition.
• Early start. Meeting time is 07:15 at Muelle Fiscal. If driving from Los Cabos, the listing suggests parking at Estacionamiento Las Palmas, with free parking on white curbs only, never red or green.
• Swimming confidence helps. Reviewers describe the whale shark swim as challenging at times, with guides positioning swimmers and even taking people by the hand to get the pace and direction right. The support is there, but being comfortable in open water makes the day easier.
• Food and drink. Lunch, snacks, bottled water, sodas and local beer are all included, and the operator personalizes food, with vegan options available. Reviewers mention a good lunch at the beach.
• Photos included. Marine life science outreach is also included.
• Group size. The boat carries a maximum of 16 travellers. Reviewers describe the operation as well organized and professional.

Common issues. The listing is clear that this is not wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Cancellation is strict: no refund if you cancel less than 24 hours before the 07:15 start. The tour also depends on good weather and a minimum number of travellers, and if either forces a cancellation you are offered a different date or a full refund. One reviewer found the whale shark swim harder than expected due to murky water, though the guide gave repeated opportunities to see the animals. Towels and gratuities are extra.

Common Questions